Bodybuilder was ‘great ambassador for Carrick’

Bodybuilder Jim Henderson, pictured with his sixth-place NABBA World Championship trophy on the night before his death. INCT-25-701-con

Published:10:28Updated:14:37Wednesday 24 June 2015

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A Carrickfergus bodybuilder who died the day after competing in the World Championships in Malta has been described as a “great ambassador for Carrick.”

Jim Henderson, aged 54, passed away on Father’s Day (Sunday, June 21) after placing sixth in the world in the previous day’s competition.

He leaves behind his wife Kathy and children Nicole and James.

The night before his death, Jim posted a picture of himself with his sixth place trophy on social media, along with the caption: “Just finished world championships in Malta, 6th in the world! Thanks to everyone who supported me!”

Tributes have been paid to the local man following his tragic passing.

Steven Stone, manager of the Flex gym, Belfast, where Jim trained, described him as “a gentleman who will be sadly missed”.

He stated: “He had been coming here for the past two years and he was a hard worker and was happy to give advice to anyone who asked for it.

“No-one had a bad word to say about him.

“He was in fantastic shape, he was always here and would have been down before the gym even opened in the morning.”

Steven saw Jim for the final time last week, when he says the Carrick bodybuilder was looking forward to travelling to Malta.

“He couldn’t wait for it,” revealed Stephen.

“What a thing to happen, especially on Father’s Day. I would like to offer my condolences to his family.”

Mid and East Antrim Mayor, Councillor Billy Ashe also offered his condolences to Jim Henderson’s family and friends.